As organisers hit back over claims that the event has become a marketing exercise, members of the National Service Veterans' Association have called off plans to visit the nine-day event, starting on June 21.

They claim poor parking and transport links to North Pier, the hub of the celebration, will make it impossible for members – most of them in their 70s and 80s – to participate in events.

John Black, secretary of the association's Blackpool branch, said: "It's supposed to be for the veterans but it's purely a marketing exercise. We feel we deserve to be treated with far more respect.

"Some veterans are in frail health and the car parks are too far away for them to walk to North Pier. We're all on pensions and some can't afford the car parking fees. It's thoughtless and inconsiderate."

The association's UK chairman, Gerald Rose, said: "The organisers have had funds from the MOD but they are choosing to ignore the veterans' financial position or offer assistance to those past warriors."

Marketing

But Coun Gary Bell, a member of the event's steering committee, said "To read Mr Black's comments was indeed distressing.

"To do justice to the thousands of veterans and their families who will be joining us here, then we, as a community, must pull together."

He added: "Blackpool must do everything it can to ensure that the country and beyond is aware that we are hosting Veterans' Week.

"We want as many people as possible to come and join with us to celebrate the contributions made to society by veterans.

"If this is what is meant by a 'purely marketing exercise' then I for one am guilty.

"We as a town and a community care deeply, both about the event and the individuals it aims to honour."

Blackpool North and Fleetwood MP, Joan Humble, has called on Blackpool Council to listen to the concerns of veterans' groups.

She said: "I am concerned to learn of the fears of many veterans that they would not be able to take part in all of the events being organised on their behalf.

"I have written to the council urging them to look at ways of providing suitable parking and support.

"The veterans should come first and then the rest of the community can share in celebrating their achievements."